First of 1,500 APS Solar Partner Customers Now On Line

PHOENIX – Today marks the first installation of the APS Solar Partner Program – an initiative that will see solar panels installed on 1,500 customer homes across the Valley of the Sun at no cost to the host customer. This residential rooftop solar program enables APS to partner with customers and the state’s local solar installers to create a brighter, cleaner energy future for Arizona.

Harmon Solar is one of the several installers taking part in the program. They completed today’s install – a 6-kilowatt system on the home of Gregg Dufort in Phoenix.

“It is a good program,” said Dufort. “I’m a fan of solar but it’s cost prohibitive to do a 20-year lease. I did my research and this program was a ‘no brainer’. I checked on the obligation option when you sell because I plan on moving and renting this home – the renter would benefit from the $30 credit. It is a good deal with no investment.”

The APS Solar Partner Program is designed to forge an innovative path for future solar deployment. The program will generate up to 10 megawatts of electricity, enabling approximately 1,500 customers to participate. Local companies will install the systems and APS will operate and maintain the equipment while paying participating customers $360 a year through the life of the 20-year program, totaling $7,200.

APS has teamed up with local solar installers, including members of the Arizona Solar Deployment Alliance (ASDA), for this program; all involved share a common goal of making solar energy sustainable for the long-term in Arizona.

“The members of ASDA are thrilled to be working with APS for this program,” said Sean Seitz, President of ASDA. “This novel program means more business for Arizona rooftop solar companies, more jobs and more clean, low-cost energy. At the same time, this shows a real spirit of cooperation between the utility, Arizona residents, and our rooftop solar businesses. That’s a big step forward for the future of rooftop solar in our state.”

The first installation was completed by ASDA member Harmon Solar.

“The Solar Partner program makes sense for ASDA’s member companies, for consumers, and for the utility,” said Dan King, Chief Operating Officer for Harmon Solar. “Residents have the opportunity to use their roof to make money. Homegrown rooftop solar companies like Harmon get to advance sustainable energy and to keep our crews busy. And APS is able to generate low-cost, clean electricity. It’s a win all around.”